Gender differences in Brazilian children's fundamental movement skill performance

Abstract

Children who master fundamental movement skills (FMS) are more likely to engage in healthy physical activity during childhood and adolescence. This study compared the fundamental motor status of Brazilian boys and girls, 3–10 years of age. Participants were assessed using the Test of Gross Motor Development-2. Boys displayed superior scores for object control (OC) and locomotor (LOC) composite skill values. The result for OC skills supports previous studies; however, the finding for LOC skills differs from that of most studies that report similar performance values. When compared to the norms, the vast majority of both sexes performed below average. Limited opportunities for FMS development in school settings and the attitude that sport is primarily a masculine domain are possible explanations discussed. This report has significant implications for the promotion of FMS and gender equality in Brazil and countries with a similar culture.